I wedge the Nitto tool in such that I don't need to hold it. That is usually enough spread. It's also important to rotate the stem to the right angle as you slide over the bends, since one orientation is much less tight than another.
Regards,
Jerry Moos Big spring, TX
Bob Hanson <theonetrueBob@webtv.net> wrote: Yes Jerry,
I do have a Nitto tool but that is not NEARLY enough spacing range for some of my stems. And, they are indeed a 1" clamp area, and going onto an alloy bar with the same 1" center and thinner (23.8 mm ?) at the brake mount areas in the curves.
I've just always been very concerned with trying to force an alloy stem open way too far and having a fracture suddenly appear at a thinner portion. I'm talking about already opening the slot from maybe around 3 mm to beyond 6 mm and this is doing absolutely nothing - except hurting my muscles. So, how much would be TOO much? Curious how much have you have (anyone?) actually spread a stem which was a 34 mm wide cylindrical clamp area, one not at all tapered at any point around the clamp area as newer ones were to help negotiate through the curves. Given enough leverage and I could probably pry the opening a full 1/2" - but should I alsoexpect to hear a loud 'ping' at some point when the thing finally breaks? Surely there must be a maximum point up to which forged dural will be compliant, and then..
Bob Hanson, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA